Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 299)

roof sheathing
Exterior

What All Homeowners Should Know About Roof Sheathing

The sheathing on older homes may have been attached with nails that are too small or the sheathing may simply need shoring up due to routine wear and tear. Learn how to weather any storm by strengthening the roof sheathing in your home.

7 Weirdly Effective Ways to Weed
Lawn & Garden

7 Weirdly Effective Ways to Weed

There's nothing more frustrating than seeing weeds flourish in your garden while the veggies and flowers languish. Even worse is seeing weeds pop up in those hard-to-pull areas between flagstones or within concrete expansion joints. Yet, while we hate weeds, we're just not comfortable dousing our yards with harsh, weed-killing chemicals to take care of the problem. That's where these effective and affordable options come in.

How to Build a Faux Fireplace
Interior

How To: Build a Faux Fireplace

Just the addition of a faux fireplace—no flame required—can make a space cozier.

The Best Toilet Flapper Options
Reviews

The Best Toilet Flapper Replacements for Running Toilets

Stop jiggling the handle and replace that worn-out toilet flapper.

A bird sitting on the bird buddy smart feeder
Lawn & Garden

This Techie Bird Feeder is the Backyard Addition You Never Knew You Needed

Birding in the backyard is about to get a major upgrade.

carpenter bee vs bumblebee
Lawn & Garden

What’s the Difference? Carpenter Bee vs. Bumblebee

The beneficial pollinators look similar, but there are important differences between carpenter bees and bumblebees. Here’s what you should know about these two types of bees.

How to Stack Firewood
Interior

How To: Stack Firewood

Proper stacking is paramount when it comes to storing firewood.

Bob Vila’s 75 Best Tips for Homeowners
DIY

Bob Vila’s 75 Best Tips for Homeowners

Whether you’re looking to learn about lawn care or tool maintenance, DIY fixes or safety reminders, we know a guy who knows a few things about home care and repair. Here are some of our favorite tips, tricks, and nuggets of advice from the man himself.

hardwood vs softwood
DIY

Hardwood vs. Softwood: How to Choose the Right Material for Your Project

The differences between hardwood and softwood are key to picking the right material for flooring, furniture, decks, and other home projects. 

Tordon Herbicide
Reviews

I Used This Tree Control Herbicide to Kill a Stump—Did It Work?

An herbicide that's strong enough to kill all the way to the roots of a tree stump? Yes, and quickly.

The Best Fuel Stabilizer Options
Reviews

The Best Fuel Stabilizers

Long winter storage and infrequent use can wreak havoc inside gas-powered equipment. The best fuel stabilizers can keep gas tanks fresh and fuel systems running smoothly.

15 Things You’re Holding On To That You’ll Probably Never Use
Interior

15 Things You’re Holding On To That You’ll Probably Never Use

Kick these items to the curb to cut clutter and make way for new things you really need.

8 Ways to Save Your Deck From Sun Damage
Exterior

8 Ways to Save Your Deck From Sun Damage

Maintain your deck’s appearance and prevent graying by using one—or more—of these tried and true methods.

Best Time To Buy Patio Furniture
Design

Solved! This Is the Best Time to Buy Patio Furniture

If you’re ready to upgrade your patio furniture, these are the best times to score a bargain.

dishwasher vs hand washing
Interior

Dishwasher vs. Hand Washing: When to Use Each Cleaning Method

While both of these cleaning methods have pros and cons, we’re here to explain which option is best in a range of scenarios. 

Best Chalkboard Paint
Reviews

The Best Chalkboard Paints for Your Projects

Whether you want a dramatic chalkboard wall on which your kids can doodle or a small space to write the weekly grocery list, choosing the best chalkboard paint is the first step.

wet room bathroom
Interior

The Pros and Cons of Wet Room Bathrooms

Wet rooms can be luxurious, spa-like bathrooms that are a good return on investment, if you plan carefully.

9 Things Home Makeover Shows Never Tell You
Real Estate

9 Things Home Makeover Shows Never Tell You

It was recently disclosed that some of the homeowners on the popular HGTV series "Fixer Upper" had already purchased their home before the show started filming—shocker! But there's good reason for the deception: If you’re buying a new home, you can’t expect to tour it, bid, and close in time for next week's episode! Behind the quick turnaround and flashy reveal lie a sea of paperwork, stressful waiting, and unexpected costs that would make a true-to-life television series a real flop. So, if you're you're considering an as-seen-on-HGTV-style renovation, keep in mind these 10 things that home makeover shows never tell you.

closeup of a young caucasian man painting an old wooden table with a brush
DIY

Lumber-Cost Lunacy: Clever Ways to Save Money on Wood for Your DIY Projects

Lumber and other wood products are expensive, and sometimes hard to come by. Here’s how you can complete your DIY projects without breaking the bank.

A lot of blooming dandelion flowers in green grass. Directly above shot. Nature background.
Lawn & Garden

3 Surprisingly Good Reasons to Let Dandelions Grow in Your Yard

Here’s why it might be a good idea to keep those fluffy, yellow flowers around.